What can I expect from an appointment at the pain management doctor?

I've been diagnosed with spinal stenosis. And two herniated discs. I've never been to this kind of doctor before and would like to know what to expect? Thanks!

Hi Done,

This is right up my alley -- I had a total of 9 herniated or ruptured discs from a fall about a year and a half ago -- only recently returning to yoga.

The location of your herniated discs determines the type of pain management therapy. If they are C region (neck), then surgery is one of the best options, with the greatest success. (I had 4 discs replaced, stenosis scraped, and I am healthier than I have been in decades -- resuming sports and running.)

If your herniated discs are T's or L's (thorax - mid back or lumbar - lower back), then you may, like I do, experience a resumption in the quality of your life through the administration of a series of epidurals. Lower backs, despite the claims of some surgeons, are not successful in the long term, often returning with a vengeance.

The epidurals are generally scheduled as a series of three -- spread out 4 to 6 weeks apart. Do not be dismayed that your relief is not felt immediately. It takes all 3 for you to feel the reduction in the swollen, irritated spine pressing against the excess bone (stenosis). Ice, following the procedure for the rest of the day has worked wonders toward recovery.

I now only have to have a single epidural, twice per year -- a small price considering it hurt to just get in bed a year ago. My surgeon is the head of the Orthopedics Department at a hospital in the suburbs of Detroit (and the inventor of my surgical procedure for my neck) -- it was the absolute best decision I have ever made.

I would not wish spinal pain on anyone. It is dibilitating and unless you have experienced it yourself, it's almost impossible to describe.

If you have any specific question on exactly what to expect, given your diagnosis, feel free to email me.

Flexing and feeling fine . . . . I wish the same for you!

I was diagnosed with disc degenerative disease and a radial tear in my back.The doctor told me what my options were,some that he recommended and some that he does not recommend,in my case.Surgery is not a good idea for me so he suggested pain meds and chiropractic care.He is a very understanding doctor and knew my pain so he gave me a script for Norcos(10mg-hydrocodone),which I am doing very well on.I will probably look into seeing a chiropractor in the future.They are strict with the pain meds,Im sure they gave you a narcotic contract with all the other paper work to fill out.I wish you the best of luck!

The usual course of care for a stenosis patient is dependent upon the degree of problem or problems you are experiencing. If they are in the beginning stages then it will be a course of non-steroidal medication and possibly physical therapy. If they are in the moderate to severe range it could be the medication, physical therapy, and epidural injections. The use of surgery is only as a means of last resort. Posture and lifestyle are major issues that have to be addressed.